RAD 420, Stuck in the Middle...

So for kids who are getting bored, or too big for Opti sailing, what is the next choice without diving into the 420 or Laser route so soon??

JSA folks may recall the testing that went on around 2005 to compare the benefits of various doublehanded trainers to serve as a transition between Optimists and the Club 420.

JSA clubs reviewed the Blue Jay, the RS Feva, the Pixel and the Club 420 with a reduced sail-area rig.

In the end the Pixel was selected and we now see plenty of Pixels at JSA events.

But up in Edgartown MA they too are trying out the Club 420 with a reduced-sail area rig that is smaller by about 28% and has no trapeze or spinnaker – they call it the RAD 420. In their mind it seems to work because it takes a boat that clubs already have and with a minimal expense for a reduced-area mainsail creates the doublehanded transition trainer they want.

There is a lively discussion about the concept of the RAD 420 on the Scuttlebutt forum at this link. Check it out and see what you think about the idea.

Comments

[Rebel6381]

That is a pretty good idea! The Laser did it with the Radial and this only requires buying a smaller sail, not the entire rigging. As much as I still love the Blue Jay and always will, this definitely makes sense for introducing young sailors to the 420 class.